FAQs

Q: What age is Fiddle Camp for?A: 5-85! We’re not kidding. Our oldest participants have been in their 80s. The multi-generational nature of Fiddle Camp is something that makes it special and an amazing learning experience for all. Our starting age is 5, and usually they have a parent with them in their classes. Over the years, we’ve found that kids need to be at least 5 to get the most out of Fiddle Camp, as it is a very big and busy week, as well as a very fun week! Also, class levels are aimed at participants ages 5 and up (unless specified otherwise).

Q: How Much Does Fiddle Camp Cost?A: Fiddle camp tuition for the Salt Spring and Sunshine Coast Camps is listed under each camp on the "registration" page. The best deal is for full time participants who take 3 elective classes per day (Each Family must have at least one full time participant). However, additional family members can sign up for 1 or 2 classes each day (part-time). Lunch is included with your registration, but other Meals & Accommodations are separate. There is an 'All In' package where participants can sign up for full-time classes, plus all optional extras (meals, t'shirts, concert tickets etc) for a discounted price.

Q: What if I Really Want To Come But Truly Can't Afford It?A: Then check out our bursary options.

Q: What if I don't play the Fiddle?A: Then check out our first time fiddle classes, or our large selection of non-fiddle classes including cello (or viola!), double bass, flute, piano, percussion, guitar, banjo, voice, songwriting, art, dance...

Q: What If I don't have a fiddle?A: Then you can rent one in any size from Larsen Music for the Salt Spring camp; call them 1-877-472-1907. It is very inexpensive and a great way to try it out. They have lots of other instruments besides fiddles too! And they bring the instrument you rent right to camp. We will let you know here once we have confirmed fiddle rentals for the Sunshine Coast, but it's already in the works.

Q: Can I Share A Room With Someone?A: Sharing Accommodations is not a problem, but you will have to set it up yourself-- either by contacting someone you know or by posting on our closed Facebook Groups.

Q: What is the difference between a full time and part time student?A: Full time students get first choice of three daily workshops plus orchestra, it's the way to get the most out of camp.- Part time students are family members of full time participants and are given 2nd priority for registration; they will get to take the course(s) they register for as long as there is still room in them after the full time participants have chosen their classes. (We'll let you know if there's an issue).- Part Timers are not usually able to take any fiddle classes except in the case of first-time fiddle, as all fiddle classes are usually filled by Full Time students. - Full time students get more out of camp, musically and financially. Part time courses are offered just so that family members of full-time students also have a chance to participate in the fun and learning!

Q: Can I just come for one or two days?A: Sorry, but drop in registration is not an option at our camp. It's for your sake and the sake of everyone at camp that we are all working, playing and progressing together as part of the same "community" for the full five days-- plus anyone who's been at fiddle camp will tell you would be crazy to want any less!

Q: What if I have to cancel? A: It's a shame, but we understand that sometimes life doesn't go the way we want it to! We can offer full or partial refunds or credits. See our Cancellation Policies

Q: What is the food like? Can I eat my own food instead?A: Fiddleworks Salt Spring is held at Stowel Lake Farm, a beautiful organic farm and retreat centre tucked in the south end of Salt Spring Island and the very talented Haidee Hart who lives on the farm with her family creates each meal fresh that day using organic produce from the farm and local meat, fish and cheese. All the food is world class delicious, so good for you, and made with love and smiles. We also offer vegetarian, gluten free, and dairy free options. Haidee will also offer dinner at the Folk Club Instructors Showcase Concert at Fulford Hall. NEW: Lunches are part of all class registrations this year.

If you would prefer to take care of your own dinners at camp on Salt Spring, you are welcome to do so. Just know that there are limited restaurants and stores nearby.

A: Fiddleworks Sunshine Coast is fully catered by YMCA Camp Elphinstone. It's our first year, but we've been promised that the food is delicious and plentiful, including a full salad bar with lunch & dinner. They cater to many different food preferences and dietary restrictions. (As long as you let us know well beforehand they should be able to cater to everyone's needs). No outside meals are allowed on site at the YMCA.

Q: Can I bring my dog to fiddle camp?A: Sorry, as much as we like them, absolutely no dogs allowed at fiddle camp. woof.

Q: What should I bring to Fiddle Camp?A: Here's a list of recommended items to bring to Fiddle Camp

Bug spray

Sunscreen/hat and other sun protection

​Crocs, sandals or other easy to slip on shoes (shoes aren't allowed in all indoor spaces)

​Raincoat, boots, just in case...it may be July, but this is the westcoast after all!

​Travel mug (disposable mugs and any disposable cutlery/plates etc are not allowed onsite.)

Own toiletries/towels etc. There are no toiletries available onsite.​

Bedding and camping gear if camping onsite (Salt Spring only).

See the YMCA's policies about what to bring and not to bring to Fiddleworks Sunshine Coast.

​​Q: Is there cell/wi-fi access?A: Depending on which cell phone carrier you are with there is limited cell coverage at Stowel Lake Farm. Reception tends to be better at the barn.​There is Wi-Fi onsite, again, it's intermittent and tends to be better near the barn.A: There is cell/wifi access at Camp Elphinstone, however the YMCA has a very strict no electronics policy, see their policies.

Q: This is my first year at Fiddle Camp, how will I know where to go and what to do?A: We are a friendly bunch and welcome everyone, returning and new to Fiddle Camp each year. On the first day we will all get together and talk through the week and set you on the right track. You’ll also be receiving an information package after you register, about a month before camp. There will also be a "newbie" table that will be attended at certain times by an experienced and friendly camper who can answer all your questions. If you have any questions before camp begins, please contact us.

Q: I've registered for Fiddle Camp and I'm not sure if the classes I signed up for are the right level for me. What do I do?A: Never fear. In May each year, participants receive music and audio files (if provided for the classes they've signed up for). At that stage, for whatever reason, if that class isn't going to work out, you will have the option to switch into a different class using the Class Change form. All class switching has to be done by July 1st. If you get to camp and feel like you've made a wrong class choice, you need to change classes on the first day.

Q: Can I Volunteer at Fiddle Camp?YES! There are lots of opportunities for participants and their family members to volunteer at fiddle camp. We love our volunteers, and everybody contributing a little bit of volunteer time is what makes fiddle camp magic happen! There is a comprehensive list of Fiddleworker jobs. You can also sign up for a volunteer job on the first day of camp. THANKS!!